Mobile Arts Council’s fall fundraiser gets under way at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29 in downtown Mobile and will feature approximately 100 original works for sale. Tickets are $30 and are available through the arts council. Proceeds benefit MAC services and programs. (See information box.)

Starting promptly at 6 p.m., guests will bid in a silent auction format for their favorite two- and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of media donated by local artists. Artwork includes painting, pottery, photography, sculpture, mixed media and more.

In addition to meeting the artists and bidding on artwork, guests will enjoy Smokin’ Gringos’ classic south-of-the-border fare, MAC’s signature skinny Red Rooster cocktail, and live entertainment by Lee Yankie.

“The fall fundraiser evolved out of financial need at this time in our fiscal year,” says Bob Burnett, executive director of Mobile Arts Council. “This is the third year that we have put together a silent auction/loud party to help with . . . operating support. The financial goal for this event is $10,000.”

The name of the event, “Come Get the Skinny,” is a reference to the MAC’s main gallery space, the “Skinny Gallery,” and is being co-chaired by Lakeshia Dotson, a member of the council’s board of directors, and Terri Gaal, a community volunteer.

“What is different about Mobile Arts Council’s event is that it is all about the art,” Burnett says. “There are no gift baskets or condo stays, which are great items to bid on, but our emphasis is on Mobile’s talented artists. In addition to their work, most of the artists will be in attendance. When you mix a lot of creative people with people interested in acquiring art, you have a guaranteed good time.”

The event is well timed in view of the wretched economy that hit nonprofits especially hard.

“Raising money for the arts has always been a challenge,” says Burnett, “but when push comes to shove regarding giving, people support what they value. In the past eight years, Mobile Art Council has made connecting people to art its priority.

“Whether it is exhibitions during Artwalk or working with at-risk young people through Strickland Youth Center, Mobile Arts Council is making a difference in the lives of the people we serve and they have responded with financial support.

“The same holds true for businesses and corporations. This year we have seen significant contributions from new sources. This reflects the hands-on approach of our board members with regard to soliciting corporate support and the recognition on the part of businesses and corporations that the arts are an integral part of the quality of life of a community.

“Access to the arts makes for more engaged and productive employees.”

MOBILE ARTS COUNCIL

WHAT: Mobile Arts Council “Come Get the Skinny” silent auction and fundraiser